Rolling Stone AU/NZ
No matter what any overbearing relatives might tell you, tattoos are no longer symbols of rebellion, criminal activities, or hyper-masculinity. In 2025, tattoos are self-expression, artistry on your own body, and are embraced by all walks of life.
In fact, 30% of Australians have at least one tattoo, a leap from 20% five years ago. It’s not a practice reserved for subcultures; they’re a pillar of modern self-expression for people of every generation. They’ve always been about self-expression, but Gen Z are leading the charge, turning tattoos from damning acts of rebellion into everyday fashions and an entire lifestyle.
It’s a notable shift for the designs themselves, too. Heavily drawn tattoos are considered traditional now, and delicate, meaningful designs of several different styles are exploding in popularity. Tattoo artists are rising to celebrity status within the community, each standing apart with signature styles and loyal follower bases of fans and customers alike.
One element of tattoo culture that isn’t changing is aftercare. An essential part of any tattoo, proper aftercare routines and products determine whether or not every new tattoo is a work of art or an uncomfortable wound. The most popular aftercare products are greasy balms and clinical ointments with branding that seems more in touch with tattoos of old, that look and feel sterile, harsh and clinical.
It’s a norm that For Another Self is taking aim at. Ditching the clinical air in favour of organic ingredients and a contemporary feel, it’s aftercare products for the 2020s. Founder Luke Ryan said, “Tattoos are a form of self-expression, and we wanted to create products that celebrate that, not minimise it.”
— You can read the full article here
— More about the published project: For Another Self
